As the Detroit Lions training camp swiftly approaches, we’re predicting which players will secure a spot on the initial 53-man roster. After evaluating the quarterbacks and running backs, our focus now shifts to the wide receivers.
Going into training camp, the Lions have at least three wide receivers locked in: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Kalif Raymond. Donovan Peoples-Jones might also be considered a likely addition, depending on his performance and the coaching staff’s assessment.
However, the situation remains quite fluid. The Lions need to determine who will claim the final spots on the depth chart and establish the hierarchy behind St. Brown and Williams.
Here’s our prediction for how things will shape up ahead of training camp:
Lions Roster Prediction at WR
WR1: Amon-Ra St. Brown
St. Brown leads the receiving corps heading into 2024 after a stellar season where he surpassed 1,500 receiving yards and scored double-digit touchdowns, earning him recognition as one of the league’s top receivers. The USC alum has improved his stats each year, and another leap in 2024 could make him a contender for Offensive Player of the Year.
WR2: Jameson Williams
With Josh Reynolds leaving in free agency, the Lions will rely more on Williams in 2024. He seems ready to step up, as head coach Dan Campbell has named him the team’s most-improved player this offseason.
“We’re two practices into Phase III, and if you asked me who’s the most improved player from start to finish, Jamo is that guy right now. He’s on a mission, and I’ll leave it at that,” Campbell said.
Williams has impressed in practice and is set for his first normal off-season and regular-season start, which should help him make a significant impact.
WR3: Kalif Raymond
Apart from St. Brown and Williams, Raymond has been the standout receiver during spring practice, positioning him as the No. 3 receiver entering training camp. Although Raymond lacks the typical size for an outside receiver, he has excelled as a deep threat and offers versatility with his slot experience.
WR4: Donovan Peoples-Jones
Peoples-Jones, likely Raymond’s toughest competition for the No. 3 spot, had a quiet offseason but has proven to be a reliable depth piece. In 2022, he had a career-high 839 yards. While his eight games with the Lions in 2023 were underwhelming, more time to learn Ben Johnson’s offense could lead to better results in 2024.
WR5: Antoine Green
A seventh-round pick in 2023, Green saw limited action as a rookie but has shown promise this offseason, making a strong case for a spot on the 53-man roster. He will need to solidify his position during training camp.
WR6: Kaden Davis
Davis is the most precarious of the six receivers listed, but his impressive performance in mandatory minicamp warrants consideration for the 53-man roster. “He’s shown up in each of these practices with a play or two,” said Lions pass-game coordinator Tanner Engstrand. “It’s been great to see his development.”
As training camp approaches, the competition among the wide receivers will be one to watch, with several players vying for a spot on the Lions’ 53-man roster.
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